Too often the tensions and unanswerable questions of Scripture and the Christian life are seen as barriers to faith. In Paradox Lost , pastor and author Richard Hansen shows that they are exactly the opposite—indeed, God’s mysteries are one of the places where we may encounter him most closely. In exchange for Enlightenment-based rationalism that can stunt spiritual imagination, Hansen invites readers to: Discern that there is a hiddenness to God that can be inviting rather than threatening - Appreciate that God is far greater than we sometimes assume, and to adjust our mental maps to make more space for awe - Realize that faith and reason are not enemies but rather dance partners that complement one another Hansen examines three kinds, or “orders,” of biblical paradox, each at a deeper level than the last, demonstrating for readers that paradox is both endemic to modern life and also a natural part of the landscape of Christian faith. Paradox Lost doesn’t seek to solve or justify paradox; instead, it looks through paradox toward what it reveals—namely a holy, mysterious, and awesome God. A highly stimulating, challenging, and well-balanced book. Hansen shows us that paradox reveals a holy, mysterious, and awesome God. I am looking forward to reading this book once more! -- Kurt Christensen, Professor of Theology, Lutheran School of Theology, Aarhus, Denmark -- Kurt Christensen Richard P. Hansen (D.Min, Fuller Theological Seminary) is a longtime pastor and former missionary professor at Ethiopian Graduate School of Theology in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. He has written articles for Leadership Journal, Preaching , Books & Culture , and International Bulletin of Missionary Research and received study grants from both the Louisville Institute and the Lilly Endowment.